You should not leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle for any length of time. If children are trapped inside cars—especially in hot weather—they can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke in a matter of minutes, leading to permanent disability or death. Heat stroke, also known as hyperthermia, can cause shock, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and heart attack, as well as brain, liver, and kidney damage. Leaving a child unattended in a car is also a form of neglectful supervision that is investigated by Child Protective Services.
In Indiana, leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle is considered a serious matter, especially due to the risks associated with heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Indiana law (Indiana Code 35-46-1-4) specifically addresses this issue, making it a Class A misdemeanor to knowingly or intentionally neglect a dependent, which includes leaving a child unattended in a vehicle in a manner that endangers the child's life or health. If the situation results in bodily injury to the child, it can be elevated to a Level 6 felony, and if it results in serious bodily injury or death, the offense can be as severe as a Level 1 or Level 2 felony. Additionally, such actions can trigger investigations by Child Protective Services for neglectful supervision, which can lead to further legal consequences and interventions.